Editors' Council airs concern about two draft ordinances

The Editors' Council has expressed deep concern about the process and timing of two draft ordinances on the National Media Commission and the Broadcasting Commission, recently published on the website of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

With the national election approaching, the council described the hurried release of the draft of such significant ordinances - carrying far-reaching implications - as unreasonable and inappropriate.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the council said the draft laws - directly affecting media freedom, journalistic professionalism, and the future of the broadcasting system - should not be introduced without adequate consultation, discussion, and review.

The council further noted that the structure and provisions of the proposed ordinances indicate a tendency towards state control, rather than the protection of media freedom.

It also criticised the move to solicit opinions within a limited timeframe, arguing that such an approach contradicts participatory and democratic principles.

According to the Editors' Council, the formulation of laws of this magnitude should be undertaken after the establishment of an elected parliament, through broad and meaningful consultations with all the relevant stakeholders, including journalists, editors, media organisations, and representatives of the civil society.

Ensuring media freedom and professional security requires a transparent, participatory and responsible process, which the council said is ultimately in the best interest of the country and its democratic future.

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